Rathbones Group PLC (LSE:RAT, OTC:RTBBF) is to combine with Investec Wealth & Investment Ltd (Investec W&I UK) to create the UK's leading discretionary wealth manager.
The all-share deal will see Rathbones remain an independent listed company with Investec PLC (LSE:INVP) as a long-term, strategic shareholder.
The merger, which values Investec W&I UK at £839mln, will see Investec Group take a 41.25% stake in Rathbones with voting rights limited to 29.9%.
The agreement excludes Investec Group’s wealth and investment businesses in Switzerland and its international business.
The enlarged group will have around £100bn of funds under management and administration.
Cash synergies of at least £60mln are forecast, primarily cost savings but also higher net interest income.
The deal is expected to enhance earnings for Rathbones in year one after completion with low-teens EPS accretion targeted by year three and a double-digit post-tax return on invested capital in the third full year also forecast.
Fani Titi, Investec Group chief executive, said: “The strategic fit of the two businesses is compelling with complementary strengths and capabilities to enhance the overall proposition for clients.”
Clive Bannister, chair of Rathbones, commented: “This transaction not only presents a compelling strategic and financial rationale, but also accelerates Rathbones' growth strategy.”